So after I thought all was said we wound up changing yet again and deciding to stay closer. We floated from Shelvin Rock access down to Hootentown on the James River just South of Springfield, MO. After the flooding that we experienced in late 2015 I was worried that we may encounter some big strainers and/or log jams. Fortunately this area was very clear and provided a beautiful float for us. The total distance according to the Missouri Paddler's Guide (an indispensable tool for Missouri floats. Check it out here) was 6.2 miles and despite the wind fighting us for most of the float, stopping for a long lunch, and fishing we finished the float in about 3.5 hours. Granted, the wind made it impossible to fish several long stretches and we just powered through them.
The sun was out for a good part of the day but when it wasn't, it made sure you knew it! It was chilly with cloud cover but just right when the sun popped out for a bit. The wind was really blowing today though and it made paddling quite a chore on several stretches. The wind would catch your paddle if you didn't hold them just right and bring you to a dead stop. It was powerful enough to completely counter-act the current. Fortunately, there were several decent sized bluffs along this stretch that provided some respite from the gale force winds.
We fished hard but didn't catch a thing. We were struggling to even get hit. However, there was someone on the bank fishing with his daughter that caught two as we passed. Isn't that how it always goes? There were some great looking holes along this stretch and I am sure that we will be back before long.
All in all it was a great inaugural float. As I have said, hopefully, the first of many more to come this year. .....come on rain!!
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